“I thought I would be disappointing (fans) if they knew I was gay. So I never did anything,” Manilow told People. “When they found out that Garry and I were together, they were so happy. The reaction was so beautiful — strangers commenting, ‘Great for you!’ I’m just so grateful for it.”

While the announcement may have been met with a lack of surprise among many fans, that didn't stop several on social media from noting Manilow's courage in making the announcement.

Thank you to my fans for the years of support. My story is out and I look forward to many more years of sharing my music. https://t.co/fRA9BPwqIU